Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

By: ALICE PUCK | Published onDecember 3, 2025

Delicious homemade butter chicken served with rice and naan bread.

When you crave something hearty and flavorful, few dishes can compare to homemade butter chicken. This dish has a creamy, aromatic sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken pieces, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. I still remember the first time I made butter chicken: the smell wafting through the kitchen was irresistible. If you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe that delivers authentic flavor without the fuss, you’re in for a treat!

What makes this recipe special

You’ll love this butter chicken because it hits all the right notes. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s not only kid-approved but also impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, who doesn’t love a creamy, spiced sauce that can make even the simplest of sides shine?

“My family couldn’t get enough of this easy butter chicken recipe! It’s now a weekly staple in our home.” — A satisfied cook

Preparing Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

This recipe is all about efficiency without sacrificing flavor. You will start by marinating the chicken, which ensures it absorbs all those delicious spices. Next, you’ll cook the chicken until it’s perfectly tender. The real magic happens when you prepare the sauce base, allowing the tomatoes and cream to meld into a rich, luxurious sauce. Finally, season to taste, and let everything simmer together. It sounds simple because it is!

Gather these items

To create this delicious butter chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

1 ½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons butter (divided)
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon curry powder
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Naan bread
Steamed rice

Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with breast meat, or swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter version.

Step-by-step instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken, 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, half the curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Blend well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Cook the Chicken: In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar, followed by the remaining salt, black pepper, and curry powder. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Season and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pan. Slowly add heavy cream, and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, approximately 10 minutes.
Finish with Butter: Stir in the last tablespoon of butter, cayenne pepper, and garam masala for a final burst of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice.

Best ways to enjoy it

Butter chicken pairs beautifully with warm naan bread, which is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a complete meal, steamed basmati rice or fluffy jasmine rice complements this dish wonderfully. For a fresh twist, serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Feel free to get creative with your plating!

Keeping leftovers fresh

Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful cooking tips

For even richer flavor, let the chicken marinate longer; overnight is perfect.
Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken when browning, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
To enhance creaminess, use full-fat coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Creative twists

Try adding vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition and color.
For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce.
Experiment with spices: adding cardamom or cinnamon can give an exciting twist to the traditional dish.

Your questions answered

What is butter chicken?
Butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is an Indian dish featuring marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. It’s known for its rich flavor and velvety texture.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken breast can be used. However, it may dry out more quickly, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe is mild but can be made spicier by adding more cayenne pepper or using spicy curry powder.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Opt for lighter cream alternatives like half-and-half or coconut milk for a lower-calorie version.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use full-fat coconut milk or even a cream alternative, such as cashew cream, which offers a similar richness.
How long does it take to make this butter chicken?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 45 minutes, so it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove for best results.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Absolutely! Once cooled, transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

This quick and easy homemade butter chicken will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. With its delightful balance of flavors and comforting texture, you’ll want to make it again and again!